Lapis Lazuli Sculpture of a Lady Admiring Peonies from the Foreign Exchange Earning Period (1949-1970s) This piece is a classic jade carving from the **Chinese foreign exchange earning period (1949-1970s)**. In the early years of the People's Republic of China, domestic jade/stone carving factories gathered a group of top craftsmen to create exquisite handicrafts using traditional techniques for export, thus earning foreign exchange for national construction. These works not only fully preserve the core techniques of traditional Chinese jade carving but also possess distinct characteristics of the era. They are important physical evidence of Sino-Western cultural exchange and are currently a popular category in the antique collecting market. Main Sculpture: Carved from a single piece of natural lapis lazuli using traditional techniques of round carving, openwork carving, and relief carving: Lady's Demeanor: Her hair is styled in a high bun, her face is gentle and lively, and her expression is serene and elegant. She wears a wide-sleeved robe with flowing, graceful lines, and flowing ribbons that add a dynamic touch. Holding a round fan, her elegant posture perfectly embodies the gentle beauty of a classical Eastern woman. Background Design: A potted peony stands to the side, its blossoms full and in full bloom, its leaves layered and distinct, its branches strong and vigorous, meticulously detailed, showcasing the peony's opulent and graceful beauty to the fullest. Craftsmanship: The carving is exquisite and skillful, with smooth and crisp lines. The openwork is delicate and translucent, demonstrating the superb level of traditional Chinese jade carving, typical of "Beijing style" or "Suzhou style" craftsmanship. Base Craftsmanship: The original hardwood (rosewood/pearwood) base is inlaid with silver cloud patterns. Traditional cloud and ruyi patterns are inlaid with silver wire, the craftsmanship is meticulous, the silver wire is smooth and neat, complementing the lapis lazuli main body, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the piece and showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the accompanying accessories. Cultural Significance of the Theme This piece features a classic traditional theme: "Ladies Admiring Peonies." In traditional Chinese culture, peonies symbolize wealth, good fortune, prosperity, and flourishing. Ladies symbolize beauty, gentleness, and fulfillment of wishes. The overall meaning is "wealth, good fortune, and a beautiful woman's wishes fulfilled," a classic expression of traditional auspicious culture, suitable for home decoration, collection, and appreciation. Lapis lazuli is a traditional and precious gemstone in China, historically reserved for imperial use (Qing Dynasty court beads, pagodas, and other ceremonial objects all used lapis lazuli as the top-grade material). Natural, undyed lapis lazuli with its natural texture possesses high material value. This piece is made of intact material, with a beautiful interplay of blue and white. This hand-carved work from the period of foreign exchange earnings is a testament to the inheritance of traditional Chinese craftsmanship, possessing both artistic and historical value. Acquired at an auction house in Milan, Italy, it comes with its original base, is in excellent condition, and has a clear provenance, making it a fine piece for collection and display.